10-Year-Old Funtari Edwin Lambert Stuns Crowd at Anyama Festival, Wins Alfred Jking’s Full Music Scholarship
By Passman Akpos
A 10-year-old boy from Ikibiri Community in Yenagoa Local Government Area of Bayelsa State has become the latest rising star in Ijaw music after delivering a breathtaking performance that earned him a full scholarship into renowned Owigiri musician Alfred Jking’s mentorship programme.
Master Funtari Edwin Lambert stole the spotlight during the Anyama Festival held on Sunday, August 2, when he boldly stepped onto the stage during Alfred Jking’s performance and thrilled the audience with flawless renditions of two of the music star’s popular songs, Ozigizaga and Isaac Adaka Boro.
Despite his young age, Funtari displayed remarkable confidence, exceptional stage presence and vocal ability that left the audience cheering. The performance was so captivating that Alfred Jking and members of the “De Because Of Love Crew” watched in amazement as the young talent confidently owned the stage, with many spectators joking that the boy had turned the celebrated singer into his backup vocalist.
Moved by the impressive performance, Alfred Jking immediately announced a full scholarship for Master Funtari into his mentorship programme for gifted young Ijaw artistes.
The programme is designed to nurture talented children interested in singing, dancing and playing musical instruments, while preserving and promoting the rich cultural heritage of Owigiri music for future generations.
The scholarship marks another milestone in Alfred Jking’s efforts to discover and empower young talents across the Niger Delta, demonstrating his commitment to ensuring that Ijaw cultural music continues to thrive.
Congratulatory messages have continued to pour in for the young performer, with many describing the opportunity as divine favour and applauding Alfred Jking for investing in the next generation of entertainers.
Supporters described the moment as inspiring, expressing confidence that the mentorship programme would help shape Master Funtari Edwin Lambert into one of the future ambassadors of Owigiri music.
For many who witnessed the unforgettable performance, one thing was clear—a new star has been born, and the future of Ijaw cultural music looks brighter than ever.
